Suspension designed for China could be N.A. bound

Oct. 6, 2010
A heavy-duty rubber rear suspension designed for the Chinese domestic market might be a good fit for vocational applications in North America and Europe, according to Gary Gerstenslager, president and CEO of Hendrickson.

A heavy-duty rubber rear suspension designed for the Chinese domestic market might be a good fit for vocational applications in North America and Europe, according to Gary Gerstenslager, president and CEO of Hendrickson. The new suspension is being manufactured by Hendrickson in China for Sinotruck Ltd., an affiliate of the country’s largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer, China National Heavy Duty Truck Co.

Speaking at the recent IAA Commercial Vehicle truck show in Hannover, Germany, Gerstenslager said the new design offers lighter weight, better durability and higher stability than the typical 6-rod suspension used in that market. With a 27 metric ton capacity, the rubber suspension is 430 kg. (946 lbs.) lighter than competitive 6-rod designs, according to Hendrickson. Higher capacity versions are also planned for the future.

Offering low-maintenance and good-ride characteristics in difficult heavy-hauling conditions, the rubber suspension could be exported to North America for vocational applications within the next 18 months, Gerstenslager said during a press conference at IAA.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

The Road Ahead: 2025 Trucking and Fleet Insights

Discover how fleet operators are impacted by challenges like driver onboarding delays and complex compliance, and the critical need for technology to boost efficiency and cut ...

Driving Growth: How to Manage More Freight

Ready to grow your trucking business? Whether you have 25 or 200 trucks, this guide offers practical tips and success stories to help you expand with confidence. Discover how ...

How to Maximize Fleet Management with Vehicle Bypass

Join us on February 18th to learn how truck weigh station bypass systems boost fleet performance and driver satisfaction.

Optimizing your fleet safety program using AI

Learn how AI supports fleet safety programs with tools for compliance monitoring, driver coaching and incident analysis to reduce risks and improve efficiency.